DIY guiding system

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Chirag R avatar
I am planning to add guiding system to my current setup, for now i am very new to this genre so I don't want to straight away invest into guidecam and guide scope, instead the idea is to learn by making guide system from existing gears (DIY) or getting some cheaper ones. And later buy one after learning some details and understanding what fits my need.

I have Nikon 70-300mm lens which i am thinking to use with webcam. Unfortunately i don't have webcam yet but i can buy one its not expensive.

My questions are:

1. Is it possible that Nikon 70-300mm can be used with a webcam as a guiding system?

2. What kind of webcams are preferred, if its possible

3. Are there any other options to use 70-300mm as guide scope?

Any other suggestions to make DIY guiding system are welcome
Olga avatar
Hey @Chirag R ! Here are some of my thoughts on your questions.
1. Yes, it is. If you use it at 300mm and keep it in the fastest f/ratio I'm sure you will be able to use it. I do have the Canon 75-300mm lens, and as im in a considerably dark sky, i can see some dim stars from the camera mirror. Of course, you will have to find a way to adapt it to your guide camera, but you can find a 3d printed adaptor, or even, in the last case, use insulating tape and cardboard.
2. I've been with an eye recently on the Svbony SV105 camera. It's around 60 dollars. You can also do planetary astro with that but it is not that great thing, imo. I'm sure that webcams work but you'd have to test it yourself on your conditions.
3. Yes! Any entry level achromatic scope would work. I'm planning to use the Meade ETX60 f/5.6 with the SV105. There's also the option to build an achromatic scope. It's easier than it seems, but always have some cardboard and insulating tape

I would truly suggest you to test the webcam + 70-300 lens system. It probably does work well, but the only way to know is by testing it! Good luck. 
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